Looking for Queensland’s next tourism leaders

27 April 2018

The Palaszczuk Government is searching for the next generation of young tourism leaders to inspire more young people to take up a career in the tourism industry.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones today launched the search, asking for employers, the industry and the community to nominate inspirational young people (under 35 years of age) to become young tourism leaders.

“For the first time we’re also looking for young people who own a business that’s directly linked to tourism or supports the industry,” she said.

“Our Young Tourism Leaders will showcase the diverse, stable and exciting career opportunities the tourism industry offers.

“These leaders will make presentations in schools, connect with vocational and tertiary students, participate in careers events and connect with the tourism industry to promote the skills and talents of young tourism professionals.

“Working in the tourism industry offers more than just a job but a sustainable career that can be a ticket to travel the world.”

Ms Jones said these leaders must be passionate about growing Queensland’s $25 billion tourism industry.

“Over the next two years we expect to create 20,000 new jobs in Queensland’s tourism industry so building the tourism workforce for the future has never been more important,” she said.

“There are a range of great opportunities in the tourism industry, covering hotel and event management as well as digital marketing, graphic design, hospitality, tourism visitor experiences and regional tourism.”

The Young Tourism Leaders program is a key part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Advancing Tourism 2016-20 strategy which aims to maximise the benefits from tourism and make Queensland the world’s leading tourism destination.

Since the program was launched in February 2017, 18 Young Tourism Leaders have connected with students across Queensland to share their personal and professional career journeys.